Snow has fallen on Canterbury’s alpine highways overnight prompting a warning from the NZ Transport Agency for motorists to take extreme care on Canterbury roads.
The Transport Agency’s Journey Manager Lee Wright says there are vehicle restrictions on State Highway 73 from Springfield through to Arthur’s Pass, with chains essential and the highway closed to towing vehicles.
“Snow has fallen on State Highway 7, from Hanmer Springs turnoff to Springs Junction. Vehicle restrictions on SH7 have been lifted but motorists are asked to take extra care travelling through the area.”
Ms Wright says snow has also fallen on State Highway 8, from Fairlie to Lake Tekapo, with vehicle restrictions in place, and on State Highway 80, from the Pukaki turnoff to Mount Cook, where caution is advised.
“We are asking all motorists to take extra care when travelling about the region this morning as driving conditions may be treacherous in some areas.”
She says everyone needs to drive to the conditions; to allow more time for their journeys, to slow down and be prepared for unexpected hazards.
Ms Wright says everyone should check road conditions before travelling and avoid all unnecessary travel if conditions could make travel hazardous.
For the latest on road information freephone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or visit the Transport Agency’s website: www.highwayinfo.govt.nz(external link)
For more information please contact:
Jan McCarthy
Media Manager- Christchurch
T: 64 3 964 2885
M: 021 427 442
jan.mccarthy@nzta.govt.nz
